UK Teenager Dies After Misdiagnosis

by Bottar Leone, PLLC

A 17-year-old girl in the United Kingdom succumbed to Type 1 diabetes after multiple doctors failed to diagnose her condition. Despite several indicators that the teen was suffering from the disease, medical professionals failed to notice the symptoms. As a result, the girl lost her life.

A probe into the case has highlighted multiple failings on the part of medical professionals. These failings included a proper diagnosis and treatments that could have saved Claire Taylor’s life.

According to reports, Claire had been ill for approximately two weeks leading up to her death.

At a hearing before the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS), Taylor’s mother said that she had taken her daughter to four separate doctors. Her daughter had lost 10 pounds in 10 days and the family was concerned. At a fifth appointment with a fifth doctor, Taylor’s mother inquired as to whether her daughter could be diabetic.

Taylor’s newest doctor dismissed her symptoms and sent her home. The next morning, Taylor became ill and her mother’s request to have her taken to the hospital was ignored. Taylor died at home later that night from a condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis.

The tribunal determined that Dr. Watts, the final doctor, failed the girl. They determined that the doctor’s actions amounted to “serious” misconduct and placed a five-year warning on her record. The tribunal did not, however, limit the doctor’s legal ability to practice medicine.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in New York due to a doctor’s negligence, reach out to our team of medical malpractice attorneys. We will schedule an appointment at which time we can discuss the details of your case at no cost to you. Call today for assistance.